Parsons Benefit Honors Fashion Elite, Top Graduates

New York- With yet another stunning presentation, Parsons, a global leader in design education, closed out the latest school year with a bang last Wednesday. The annual benefit which has previously honored other fashion elite such as Marc Jacobs, Reed Krakoff and Diane von Furstenberg, focused its attention on its newest honorees Bonnie Brooks president of the Hudson’s Bay Company and Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler.

Upon receiving her award Brooks said, “I have worked with many designers throughout my career and believe strongly in discovering, nurturing and supporting young and emerging talent. Parsons has launched many famous careers in our industry, from Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford to a new generation of designers like my fellow honorees, Jack and Lazaro. None of us in the industry would be here without the creativity and discipline that is fostered at schools like Parsons, and I am honored to support scholarships at Parsons through the proceeds of tonight’s event.”

Parsons Executive Dean Joel Towers announced that the benefit, now in its 65th year, raised nearly $1.7 million for scholarships at Parsons.

Flora J. Lee

Hernandez with McCollough had this to say, “We are so lucky to be part of an industry that encourages young talent. Not only did Parsons provide us with a foundation in design, but also enabled us to form relationships that jumpstarted our careers, which began this very night eleven years ago. This is a full circle moment for us in accepting this award.”

Also honored during the evening’s festivities were the top designers of the year; womenswear designers Harim Jung from South Korea, and Kaye Applewaite from Barbados; menswear designer Yunxiang Sharon Zhou from China; and childrenswear designer Diana Flavio Woodside from Los Angeles.

A highlight of the evening was the fashion show of top graduates work. Tracy Reese, yet another Parsons alumna, introduced the collections which are now on display in the windows of the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue through June 4th.